5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Masonry Contractor in Cleveland

Cleveland has no shortage of masonry contractors. Some have been in business for decades. Some appeared last year. Some call themselves "the one and only" solution. But titles and tenure do not guarantee competence. These five questions will separate the qualified professionals from the rest.

Question 1: What Mortar Type Will You Use, and Why?

This is the most important question you can ask. The answer reveals whether the contractor understands material compatibility — the foundation of all masonry work.

Good answer: "Based on the age of your building and the type of brick, I would recommend a Type O or lime-based mortar to match the original construction."

Bad answer: "We use Type S on everything." or "Standard mortar."

A contractor who defaults to one mortar type for all buildings does not understand that mortar must be matched to the masonry. This single mistake causes more brick damage in Cleveland than any other factor.

Question 2: How Deep Will You Cut the Joints?

Joint depth determines the longevity of a repointing job. Shallow cuts produce shallow bonds that fail quickly.

Good answer: "We cut to a minimum of 3/4 inch, and we go deeper when the existing mortar is deteriorated beyond that."

Bad answer: "We grind the surface and fill it in." or any answer that avoids specifying a depth.

Question 3: Can You Show Me Photos of In-Progress Work?

Finished masonry photos show the cosmetic result. In-progress photos show the quality of preparation — joint depth, cleanliness, and technique.

Good answer: The contractor has a portfolio of in-progress photos showing clean, deep-cut joints before mortar installation.

Bad answer: "I only have photos of finished work." This may mean the contractor does not document their process — or does not want you to see it.

Question 4: What Does Your Written Scope Include?

A professional masonry contractor provides a detailed written proposal — not a verbal quote or a one-line invoice.

Good answer: "My proposal includes the specific work to be performed, materials to be used, exclusions, timeline, payment terms, and warranty."

Bad answer: "I'll send you a number." A number without a scope is meaningless. You cannot hold a contractor accountable to work that was never defined.

Question 5: What Is Your Insurance Coverage?

Masonry work involves scaffolding, heavy materials, and structural modifications. Proper insurance is non-negotiable.

Good answer: "I carry general liability and workers' compensation. I can provide a certificate of insurance before we start."

Bad answer: "I'm covered." without specifics, or any hesitation about providing documentation.

Why These Questions Matter

These questions are not designed to trick anyone. They are designed to identify contractors who understand the fundamentals of masonry work. A contractor who can answer all five confidently and specifically is likely to produce quality work. A contractor who cannot is likely to produce work that fails prematurely.

At Veteran Masonry, we welcome these questions. We answer them in every proposal, every consultation, and every project. Our work is built on transparency, technical competence, and accountability.

Ready to talk to a contractor who has the answers? Request a free estimate [blocked] or call (216) 213-5403.